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3 Tips for Buying Land for Residential Development

by Dianne Drinkwater 07/26/2020


 Photo by Benjamin Balazs via Pixabay 

Buying land can be a tricky matter for many people, especially when they're first getting started. No matter how valuable a property may seem at the time, it may not take very long to realize there were more strings attached than you thought. But while there are a few red flags to keep in mind, you don't have to let your nerves get the better of you. Before signing a contract, here are a few facts to keep in mind. 

Zoning Laws 

Chances are, you've likely already confirmed that the land has been zoned for building, but what you may not have considered is the extent of the zoning laws. Building in certain neighborhoods may be difficult to do, depending on the size and configuration of the property. You also may want to consider how future laws will affect your building. For example, if the neighborhood is likely to pass new laws to protect the environment, you need to keep in mind the expense and effort of compliance. Zoning hiccups may not prevent you from buying the property, it can just help you prepare for what's ahead. 

The State of the Land 

If you're buying property, you need to do more than just look at the site. You need to know if the soil has been contaminated while the land sat vacant, how fast the tree roots are growing, and whether the ground can support certain infrastructure. If the roots are moving close to the property site, you'll need to factor in the cost of removal. Buyers should also consider how the sunlight (or lack thereof) will affect the eventual inhabitants. If there are sun-blocking hills near the area, it could significantly reduce the demand of the property. 

The Neighborhood 

If you're looking for a bargain, it's likely going to come in the form of a fairly undesirable neighborhood. Building in an area like this may pay off in spades, or it may end up being a major mistake. Some people will jump on neighborhoods that are "up-and-coming" only to find that the wind changes direction soon after buying. Or they find that it takes too long for the neighborhood to become valuable. You need to think about what you'll do if you can't sell for the price you want (e.g., rent, etc.). Not every developer can wait a decade or more before the market shifts. 

Buying land can be a great way to both meet the housing demand in an area while generating profit for you. The key is to consider the most common scenarios (and problems) that may occur before moving forward. 

About the Author
Author

Dianne Drinkwater

Dianne is a full time, full service, state licensed Realtor®, member of Northeast Florida Regional Association of Realtors® (NEFAR), St. Augustine/ St.Johns County Board of Realtors, National Association of Realtors® (NAR), Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR), and Northeast Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service And St. Augustine/St. Johns (MLS), Shearwater Certified, and Military on the Move Designation.

She provides a unique blend of leadership, sales acumen, project management, technology, and world class customer relation skills to enhance Watson Realty Corporation's values in the real estate sales and mortgage marketplace. She is a decisive take action solution-oriented professional with 25+ years of progressive business experience who efficiently utilizes technology to improve results. She has lived in the St. Augustine/Jacksonville area since 2005 and has seen the area continue to flourish and stays well informed of future growth plans within Northeast Florida. 

Let's take a look at the lighter side of Dianne. She loves life is artistic loves music, the arts, yoga and genealogy! She loves to explore and hates to be bored. She loves the outdoors, especially plant life and wildlife. She has been a Master Gardener in Florida and Maine; as a photography enthusiast she has the eye to spot the perfect shot, which spills over to the photos she makes of the properties she markets AND frequently hires the best specialized real estate photographers/drone and videographers who make the difference in the sale. And, she loves to share her knowledge of the local real estate market and all aspects of the process to guide you through each step as a coach rather than a salesperson. 

So, let's sum it up. Buying or selling your home is an important life decision. Reasons can vary greatly from change of lifestyle, to relocation or life challenges. You need someone you can trust, count on, respect and help shoulder the stress, anxiety and time commitment involved. Doesn't this sound like someone you want working for you? 

So, what's the next step? Contacting Dianne of course. It is all about YOUR needs, goals, timeline and DREAMS! She's here to help you achieve them and she looks forward to hearing from you. 

What are you looking for in a Realtor? - Someone who will really listen to your wants and needs? Someone who will expertly market your home until the SOLD sign adorns your front lawn or if you are a buyer tirelessly researches your wish list to find that perfect home? - How about someone who will always be honest, holds ethics in high regard as a realtor, who works aggressively to get you the best price for your home and someone who knows the market? 

Selling or buying a home is a partnership with your trusted advisor- Dianne Drinkwater